Daniel is the protagonist of the novel; he is a former slave and committed to overthrowing the Roman government. Because his family has been torn apart and his father and uncle killed by the Romans, Daniel is driven by rage and a desire for vengeance; he hates the Romans more than his feelings for anything else. As the novel progresses, Daniel's character is changed, first by his friendship with Joel and Thacia, and then by the influence of Jesus.

"Think, Daniel, can you repay such love with hate?"

"It's too late to love Samson. He is probably dead." Then, as Jesus waited, "Should I love the Romans who killed him?" he asked with bitterness.

[...]

"Can't you see, Daniel, it is hate that is the enemy? Not men. Hate does not die with killing."(Speare, The Bronze Bow, Google Books)

The above scene occurs after Samson dies saving Daniel's life; Daniel is traumatized, angry at the Romans and confused by Samson's act, since he believes Samson to be incapable of understanding their cause. Because of the influences of his friends, and the realization that his actions matter more to them -- and affect them directly -- Daniel is able to move past his hate and embrace love as his cause. In the end, instead of seeking vengeance against the Romans, Daniel will now seek to change the hearts and minds of his fellow men.